Tottenham Hotspur have made a shock offer to sign Lucas Paqueta from West Ham United, according to reports in Brazil.
Paqueta is facing an uncertain future with the Hammers currently on track to be relegated from the Premier League after a disastrous campaign to date.
Despite scoring five goals in 19 games so far this term, the attacking midfielder has left supporters disappointed with his all-round performances. As a result, it's expected that Paqueta will leave West Ham before long as both he and the club prepare for a fresh start.
Where he will end up remains to be seen with West Ham's bitter rivals emerging as surprise contenders to snap him up.
Tottenham Eye Shock Paqueta Move
Paqueta's West Ham days appear to be numbered and Tottenham are now among the clubs keen to sign him. According to Torcida Flamengo, Spurs have tabled an offer worth £26million to sign the midfielder.
The 28-year-old is also a target for Brazilian side Flamengo. Paqueta came through the youth ranks with the club and scored 18 goals in 95 games before joining AC Milan in 2018. The report states that a return to his boyhood club is the preferred choice of the attacking midfielder with Flamengo in advancing talks over a deal to sign him.
However, with Spurs also entering the fray and offering him the chance to stay in England and Europe, Paqueta could face a head vs heart battle when deciding his next destination.
Currently, battling relegation with Nuno Espirito Santo's side, Paqueta has 18 months remaining on his contract that expires in the summer of 2027.
West Ham Must Rebuild Entire Team
Paqueta's potential exit could pave the way for a much-needed rebuild at the London Stadium. Nuno's squad is lacking in so many positions and needs vital attributes added to it in order for them to compete on a regular basis.
Whether West Ham are in the Premier League or Championship next term, the Hammers need to revamp the entire squad to get them firing again.
Funds from a deal to sell Paqueta could be crucial in doing that. The only risk to selling the Brazilian is the prospect of losing one player with an undoubted x-factor and someone who can be a matchwinner. But with supporters keen to see a team fighting for their shirt, I don't think too many tears will be shed if he moves on.